Jaguar XJ-Series

Comments

I'm conflicted about these warranties, because I've never got my money out of one yet.

IMO it's all about one's comfort level with risk. I'm relatively risk-averse and turn my own car over toward the end of factory warranty as a routine matter. My wife, however, keeps a car for 10 years so extended warranty has saved us a fortune in the lives of her last two cars.

I came within a whisker of buying an '03 VDP w/ 7K miles on it but balked because I would have had less than a year of coverage ... and the local dealer didn't know whether an extended warranty was available from Jaguar! While I found it hard to believe at the time, I took it as a message to stand clear of that unit despite the fact that it was a spectacular specimen. Bart :shades:

The differences between the '05 and '06 are there, but they are NOT nearly as significant as the salesmen would have you believe. The missing body molding on the '06 might be a bit more attractive, if you are so inclined, but not worth the risk of possible dings on the aluminum body. The moldings look fine, IMO, and are probably better to have than not, as on the '05. The '06's brakes are slightly larger, but not a major difference that should be of any concern whatsoever. The road noise difference is very slight, as the '05 and '06 are both respectably quiet. For the most part, the '05 and '06 are the same, but the price is not. Further, the '05 comes with included maintenance while the '06 does not. The newer '06 wire mesh front grill insert is interchangeable and available in the parts department. If you think it makes enough of a difference you can order it and swap out the front grill. Getting a killer price on a good '04 or '05 is the way to go. History will prove that this will be one of the best times EVER to buy an XJ. The current generation is gorgeous and reliable and can be had for a steal. My recommendation is the Vanden Plas with rear entertainment multi media if you can find one. The built-in headrest color monitors are so very cool, and the center console has an amazing control center for all the media. That way you get the long wheelbase, and all the other upgrades as well.

Tagman, what about the '04 vs. the '05/'06? Are there any compelling reasons to go for the later version/

Incidentally, I'm told by a dealer that very few '04 LWB cars were brought in. One partial explanation (mine not his) of why the '04 resale is so low is that the cars are all plain jane XJs. When I cruise cars.com I see a stiff premium for the XJR and believe it or not, the Vandeplas. The latter seems to command the same resale as the XJR! The price premium between an XJ and the XJL/XJR is at least 10K for an '04. Maybe more. In carspeak, the VandePlas and the XJR seem to "residualize" well. Not sure about the XJL. I don't seem much difference in price between it and a SWB.

What are your thoughts on brisk driving? The less expensive SWB would seem to handle better on the interstate AND around town. IMHO I just don't see the reason for the LWB: only people like Rummy have chauffers; if you have dogs, the Irish Wolfehounds ain't going to be in the Jag; no one picnics by the road anymore so the fold down tables are frivolous; while the back seat is bigger on the LWB the trunk is no different so you aren't going to be carrying any more golf clubs or whatever; I just don't get it.

On the other hand, if I could find a nice used XJ SWB, a set of 20" Sepang ($4500 option on the XJR) wheels on Ebay, and a guy who would install the thicker 31mm XJR antisway bar on it for short money, I would be a happy guy.

Well, there are the LPS guys and there are the HELM guys that are gererally split between indulgence and performance. Sometimes the same beast, but often enough two seperate animals. That explains the values for the XJR and the Vanden Plas BOTH being better. I personally prefer this automobile in the longer wheelbase. From my personal perspective the Vanden Plas is the ideal icon for the XJ.

Somehow, I'm very partial to the '05's in general as the best all around buy, but you must know something here that I would like you to share at this point. So fill me in already.

Tagman, sorry, no secrets. Like you I think that a used '04 or later XJ is a great buying opportunity and I'd just like to pick the best year in terms of price/ depreciation vs. features.

Incidentally, I'm old enough to be a sucker for BRG with a tan interior. I can recall when half of the TR4s in the world seemed to be BRG. Curiously, I don't see many used XJs in BRG. And, the green in the XJR is the lighter, Jaguar Racing Green which is not to my liking. IMHO the XJ, like most HELMs, looks better in a dark color. I couldn't imagine one in white.

On a side note, I drove an '04 XJ recently whose front seats were fantastic. They were far more supportive than my Porsche Cayennes and more comfortable than our Volvo XC.

Personally, as I've mentioned, I believe this car is a potential steal if you can get it the right way. The right way, of course is your own preference, but there are some guidelines to consider. You have already indicated that you are aware that the Vanden Plas and the XJR are the better resale. In the longer run, the Vanden Plas will do even better because it won't have been driven as hard or even abused as can be the case with the XJR. Also, the long wheelbase is getting to be popular again. Look around at other Marques and you might agree. Even Lexus will be introducing their very top tier in a long wheelbase. So, this supports the long-term consideratin of the Vanden Plas. Also, it has all the bells and whistles. Total luxury all the way. It is, IMO, the Jaguar XJ icon. But again, if you like to really put your foot into it and need even more power, then the XJR may be your ticket. Interestingly, the standard engine gets exceptional mileage that is so good it would require another manufacturer to use a hybrid or diesel to compete with it. It's truly amazing. And, of course, the XJ is elegant and gorgeous, as well as comfortable. The fact that it is aluminum is somehow forgotten sometimes, but is just another wonderful thing about the XJ. And the modern XJ is even reliable enough to not lose any sleep. Interestingly, the '05, if purchased new, comes with 4 years of full maintenance as well as the warranty, and the '06 does not. I vote for a new '05 at a terrific price or a very clean used '04 or '05. As far as the burgundy color goes, yes I remember the Triumph TR6 and other British cars in burgundy, but I would caution you that resale would probably be a little compromised. Modern popular colors are black, silver, gun metal gray, and white. White is not quite as popular on the XJ, and the number one selling color for all cars in the USA for the fifth year in a row is silver. It looks terrific on the XJ, IMO, as do dark colors as you suggested, especially black.

Ultimately, it is a gorgeous vehicle that can be had for about half to two-thirds of what any other comparable HELM would cost you. And in some ways it is MORE car than those others. It's amazing to me.

"BRG" or "brg"... in Jag or any English built car (MG, etc)is British Racing Green. All greens, especially darker ones like BRG, SEVERAL years ago were VERY popular. (Like in the '50's & 60's) But greens have been quite poor sellers for the last 35 years, with the exception of just a handful of British car buyers or us older nostalgia seekers. I prefer, for ease of maintenance, WHITE! I don't have to wash mine but every couple months and it still looks good. IMO... As long as I've got the cat on my hood it looks good in any color.

My terrible oversight on the color. BRG is British Racing Green, and I was reading so fast, and it was late. Shame on me for being so brain dead on that one. I also recently missed an L on XJL on a recent post, and therefore didn't recognize that a long wheelbase was being referenced. I definately need to slow down and read more carefully sometimes.

In any event, we totally agree that it is a poor seller, and not necessarily a very good choice, unless you happen to love it, and then it doesn't matter any more. And, BTW, since you mentioned white , I think white is an outstanding color choice. Over the years, I have owned various vehicles in white and always thought it was a smart pick. Even though white it is not statistically a major seller for the XJ (according to the dealer, at least), I personally think it makes for an outstanding looking vehicle. We completely agree, and once again, forgive my display of idiocy, as I usually do better than that. Again, thanks for the wake up.

I say that the '05 model is the hot choice for value---and long term reliability, over the '04. Meanwhile, I actually think that the '06 changes are pretty negligible---the changes in the trim with the body molding etc. are not noticed by anybody but a Jaguar aficionado. I drove an '06 and did not sense any really significant change in quietness due to the insulated glass either. Although, the new '06 brakes might be the only reason, if the new revised brakes turn out to be less squeaky.

I originally thought that the increased horsepower in the supercharged XJR was a noteworthy '06 change, until I realized it was just a recertification that raised the HP ratings, rather than any changes to engine.

So, having owned/leased an early '04 and my current '05, I would say that it is best to go for the '05....and do not pay a big premium for the '06.

The overall build quality, trim fit and execution is better in the '05 than my '04. While I had a stinky lemon '04, I still feel that the first year bugs are worked out in the '05 and '06 versions.

I had no wheelbase choice in the XJR, but I prefer the SWB for handling and roadability. However, if you carry adults in the back seat, the LWB is the hot choice for leg room and comfort.

Even though I drive a supercharged XJR, I also want to say that the base XJ powertrain has plenty of pep and power. It is quick and responsive. Bear in mind, that I do not engage the Supercharger in my XJR in most daily driving, except for highway acceleration, or "ego exercise" and it is still a quick light car with the basic engine.

So, according to you and I, and the others, the concensus then is for the '05. Well done, I must say. It really does show up as the one to get when you stop and take a good look at it. It would seem that the '05 Jaguar XJ represents on of the best HELM deals in history, and particularly the XJR and Vanden Plas versions.

Hey... You have the same problems I have! I have to proof read everything. It would be easy for me to think I saw a "u" in between the b_rg. Also like the Rad Red but dealers claim that TOO is a poor seller. Best on the R or SWB, not the LWB. Had both SWB & LWB. I'ld definitely go LWB. Handling/performance difference negligable, price is right, classier look, easier resale, etc.. If handling is genuinely important then go the R and suffer the stiffer ride. But being fair & honest with ones self the extra guts are not needed very often & it really is mostly an ego builder. Fun playing with the kids in what they think are hot cars. If a lot more people realized how really fine the Jag IS... resale would skyrocket. That's the genuine Jag, XJ series, not the S and definitely not the X. But that's just MO. JAG RULES!

As the very happy owner of an 04 XJ, I am surprised to hear the number of posts talking about the "much improved" or "more reliable" '05s. I have 17K miles on my Slate Gray (dark gray) XJ, and have not had a single problem with the car. As far as the power relative to the supercharged XJR - if one drives the XJ sedan and presses the gas down to the floor - you better be prepared for the results. I was astonished at how powerful the 294 hp V8 felt. Of course, these XJ's are about 200 lbs lighter than their predecessors due to the alum body. Resale wise - no Jags have ever been great in that area - if I put mine on the market now, I would ask around 37K - but I paid $52K new. Sticker was $64K. I have checked around on the wholesale on the car - its about 31-33K.

If a lot more people realized how really fine the Jag IS... resale would skyrocket. That's the genuine Jag, XJ series, not the S and definitely not the X. But that's just MO. JAG RULES!

The XJ is Jaguar's sedan icon, no doubt, and the Vanden Plas is the XJ icon, IMO. I agree . . . not the S, and definately not the X. The XKR is the sports car Jaguar icon. Two models . . . the XJ and the XK. That's really what Jaguar is now about.

The '04 is a fine car, and is essentially the same as the '05 and '06. The "new generation" is the XJ winner and there are improvements to be expected between the '04 and '05, but there are plenty of great '04's out there. But, to look at the situation from a purist standpoint, the '05 represents one of the best values, not only for a Jaguar, but for ANY luxury car on the market, provided that it is purchased at a good price . . . which is still easy enough to do! But, watch out! History is going to change this window of terrific value availability as Jaguar changes their price structure in the near future. Get one now, if you are seriously thinking about it. It will never be this good again. Never.

You'll be happy to know... the wholesale value is really $35K on an '04 XJ8, with an average of 22K miles. That is what dealers nationwide are actually paying. Then, in nearly every case, they still spend from $200 to $1000 in recon... and if they certify it and include an extended warranty, that is an additional cost. Your car, with less miles, even without an extended warranty, should bring a minimum of $39K. re post referring to XK series... my apologies. I just wasn't thinking about the coupes or ragtops. They, of course, are as true a Jag as the XJ series. Glad you also recognize the difference in the S and X series, as they are more accurately re-badged Fords with only a small part that can be actually attributed to Jaguar. They're still good looking... and make it easier for more to claim the bragging rights of owning a Jag... but they definitely won't earn a parking place in a true Jag connoisseur's barn. I also agree that the XJ's & XK's are a good value, both new & ESPECIALLY used!

I am sure that many folks are happy and content with the '04 XJ's. Nonetheless, buying the first year of production on an all-new car does involve some issues that later cars do not have.

I admittedly had a lemon, so my experience may be an anomaly, but the service manager and G.M. at my dealership have confirmed with their experience, that the '05's are seemingly more free from bugs and glitches. This is just the evolution of the model...it happens with all cars during the first few years of production.

However, my XJR was a relatively early production '04 and there were plenty of flaws and factory bulletins for tweaks in these early cars. Most earlier '04's needed tranny flush and recalibration, and other tweaks. Some of us are more finicky about fit and finish than others, but I saw numerous fit and finish issues on '04's that are no longer a problem on later versions. Some people just do not notice things than might bug other drivers. For example the leather trim that wraps into the ashtray area on many early '04's was not cut neatly and/or shrunk away. The chrome trim on the tail-lights was also and problem on many '04s. Likewise the upper trunk liner came loose on my car three times....and the same thing happened on a relative's 04 XJ. These are little things, but they are no longer a problem in the later cars.

If the price differential between an low mileage '04 and a low mileage '04 is not too significant, it makes much more sense to go with an '05. If you find a killer deal on an '04 that looks good and feels right, then go for it.

fenn - thanks for the extra insight. It once again highlights the conclusion that a decent '04 can be OK, but the '05 is the really the one to get . . . based on the inherent improvements of the '05, the included maintenance program (if purchased new), and the potential terrific price at this point in history.

A well-priced '05 XJR or '05 XJ Vanden Plas is a terrific car purchase . . . truly an unbelievable amount of car for the money.

If I could buy in a new '05 XJL in my choice of color with no options except the winte package for 50K , how would that be? While at first glance this sounds like a great deal (MSRP is 66K or so), would I be better off just buying a used '05 ,which is what this one will be when I drive it home, for 44-45K or so (if I could find one)?

Incidentally, thanks to Tagman et al I think I now more about late model XJs than most of the sales guys I have talked to. The last two weeks of posts have been very helpful.

Don't take this the wrong way. I'm not a salesman for them. Have never been there or bought from them, but... check out TexasCarsDirect site for late model Jags. Maybe you are already aware of them or it may be too far away. If not, it might be worth a look and a phone call. There probably is more than one dealer in the states that handle similar large Jag inventories but I haven't heard of them. If anyone knows of others, how about a heads-up. I intend to add a second XJ to my garage. An R or L. If I can't find one close to home I would go the 1000 or so miles for the greater selection.

Incidentally, thanks to Tagman et al I think I now more about late model XJs than most of the sales guys I have talked to.

You are welcome.

Have you ever seen cars.com? It MIGHT offer you some price perspectives. You can extend the search distance and parameters to whatever you like, and it could give you some extra insight . . . maybe. If not, then there is no loss. Whatever you do, if you reach into risky waters, be careful of sharks. Safety can be worth a little extra $$, if you know what I mean. Peace of mind is valuable, IMO.

For 35 years I discouraged my wife from buying her dream car. A Jaguar. I relented and we bought a used XJR. Wow what a great car-until the transmission went out at 55k miles. Fortunatley we still had a few days left on the orig. Jaguar warranty. Jaguar installed a rebuilt trans at no charge to us except the ded. We thought it would be wise to purchase an extended warranty from another company but through the dealer. $3900.00 for the Gold level. 15 months and 10,400 later the second trans went out leaving my with stranded in heavy traffic. The warraty co. claims the are not required to replace it with another rebuilt but a like kind and quality one which would be ok if it had 10,400mi or less, however they claim they did not insure the transmission that was in the car when we bought the policy but the the car with 55k miles. Jaguars warranty expired after 12 months and they are not willing to participate in any way for another rebuilt. Needless to say we are very disappointed with the whole thing and will not buy another Jag. Any simalar problems or solutions? Thanks

You have an insurance claims problem. If the replaced transmission was not specifically EXcluded from the Gold, $3900 policy, it IS covered. However, the fine print may generally expound on "subsequent REBUILT parts", which would be placing the insurance company in the position of offering a used rebuilt guarantee for another manufacturer.IF the exclusion is not in the contract, there is coverage. There is always the state insurance commission to consult. Good Luck.

I am going to be in the market to buy a used car near the $20,000 range. I thought about a used Acura but I realy like the looks and styling of a Jaguar. Looking around I found a certified 2003 x-type with 43,000 miles for 19,9, a certified 2002 x-type with 23000 for the same money and a non cerified 2001 XJ8 for 19, 900 as well with 43,000 miles.

my conmcern is the cost of maintence, We have many dealers and independent mechinics where I live. Are the parts quite a bit more expensive that parts for a Acura or a Maxium? Are there anythings that I should look for or problems areas that I should know about? What do you think?

Assuming you mean Maxima (Maxium?); the maintenance/repair costs will generally be less than either the Acura or Jag. Mostly because dealers for each brand don't see the owner/buyer in the same light. Parts would likely run slightly more (than for the Nissan) but not an appreciable amount. Reliability is comparable on later models as you are mentioning, but(regrettably) the X-type doesn't seem to be quite as trouble free as the other two. Remember... the X-type is basically a Ford. The XJ series, on the other hand, IS Jaguar and reliability has greatly improved over the last several years, and is right up there with the BEST. I own an '01 XJ8 with about 35K miles and it's been a GREAT car all around. Even the gas mileage is fine. On a 3500 mile trip, driving @ 80+ mph whenever possible (averaged 63 mph including going thru towns, construction, etc) I averaged 26.4 mpg going & 25.6 returning. Around town, with LOTS of really short jaunts, I still average about 17.5 mpg! (That's not much less than what other so called economy cars get, and I enjoy a better ride, quiet, and much much more.) $19,900 is a real decent buy. I would NOT sell mine for anything close to that, and I am a retired dealer so could replace it at a TRUE wholesale price. (Not book value prices- they are only a guide and a very poor one.) You are comparing apples to oranges with these three vehicles. The XJ is not in the same league at all, but if maintenance/repair costs are the deciding factor then go with the Maxima. All three, if taken care of properly and not abused or neglected should serve you well, but of course you have now way of knowing their full history. In EVERY case be sure that the cars are what they appear to be. Spend the time & $$ to have a GOOD independent mechanic check it out. (Maybe even a body shop also?) In regard to previous post about the XJR trans failure.. The R series, being supercharged for performance, is much more likely to be abused so, understandably, is more likely to be prone to drive train failure AND also more likely to have had body repairs than the normally aspirated cars. But, also... many people that buy NEW lower cost vehicles don't seem to maintain them as well. Pride of ownership aspect maybe? So no matter what, it is buyer beware. If it were my choice, and not so worried about POSSIBLE repairs, it would definitely be another XJ8!I'm basically VERY conservative... but in this case the pride of ownership with the XJ trumps everything else, IMO!

In regard to previous post about the XJR trans failure.. The R series, being supercharged for performance, is much more likely to be abused so, understandably, is more likely to be prone to drive train failure

I don't buy that as an acceptable excuse. Build a car with extra power, couple it with serious drivetrain parts that can take it. My guess is the drivetrain CAN take the abuse ... but from time to time mechanical stuff fails. And it's very possible, particularly in the instance just cited, that something else in the car is putting inordinate stress on the tranny and causing the failures. I'm not a mechanic ... never was, never will be. I just like to think logically. Bart (I'm still craving a Jag but can't pull the trigger on buying one because of past history. Nonetheless, I'm hearing more and more GOOD things about them now and may bite the bullet when my Infiniti lease is done. I had an XK120 fixed head coupe when I was in college ... beautiful but a piece of mechanical garbage.) :shades:

I have a 1995 XJR. After charging the dead battery, the car ran fine. Then I parked it in my garage and now it won't start. The engine turns over but won't catch even briefly. I thought maybe the battery voltage was low and charged the battery again, but same result. Any ideas about what could be wrong? This is the first time the car won't work. Thanks, Foster

If a lot more people realized how really fine the Jag IS... resale would skyrocket. That's the genuine Jag, XJ series, not the S and definitely not the X. But that's just MO. JAG RULES!

The XJ is Jaguar's sedan icon, no doubt, and the Vanden Plas is the XJ icon, IMO. I agree . . . not the S, and definately not the X. The XKR is the sports car Jaguar icon. Two models . . . the XJ and the XK. That's really what Jaguar is now about.

I copied two comments in italics, but I am curious about this issue. Never mind the X - it is a Ford platform. But why the criticism of the S? It looks like an older Jag, very nice retro style, and performs pretty well. I prefer the performance of the R version, which I have, to just about anything out there.

Secondly, I am interested in the 05 XJ series. The dealers who have leftover new 05s are getting a lot of support to sell them, I hear. Any solid info on how much?

I think the issue with the S-Type is that its platform was developed jointly for the Lincoln LS and late Ford T-Bird. But Jag had more involvement with it than the X-Type, which is simply a European Ford Mondeo platform with rear wheel drive added to the Mondeo's front wheel drive. BTW, a curious comment on platform sharing is now happening at GM. Their SAAB ads extoll the virtue of SAAB's aircraft engineering. However, GM's first action after acquiring SAAB was to lay off all of SAAB's engineering staff (totaling 300 people). So I guess that important fighter aircraft experience wasn't worth keeping, except in the advertisements.